Senior Women Web

Under the military's criminal procedures, commanders have clemency powers, which means they can dismiss military court convictions "for any reason or no reason." The policy came under fire when Air Force Lt. Gen. Craig Franklin overturned a jury's ruling that Lt. Col. James Wilkerson, was guilty of aggravated sexual assault ... Under [Secy of Defense Chuck] Hagel's proposal, commanders could still reduce someone's sentence but would have to submit a reason in writing. [Democratic] Sens. Claire McCaskill and Barbara Boxer have called for similar changes. Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Calif., introduced a House bill that goes further, removing a commander's authority to overturn or reduce a judge's sentence. more »

We're always asking, 'what do you need' for Father's Day? My husband named a few items, some whose maker you may not have heard of. Blåkläder Workwear offers a line of very durable work clothes, many with extra pockets for special purposes such as jeans with flap pockets at the knees to add knee pads. My husband bought their Roughneck Kangaroo black vest which, as the name suggests, has multiple utility pockets — or pouches — front and back providing lots of storage for tools and materials, as well as cell phone, keys and more. And don't forget the new sunscreen rules when he ventures out as well as perhaps a new hat. more »

Ben Bernanke speaks: "I am all for beauty, romance, and sexual attraction — where would Hollywood and Madison Avenue be without them? But while important, those are not the only things to look for in a partner. The two of you will have a long trip together, I hope, and you will need each other's support and sympathy more times than you can count. Speaking as somebody who has been happily married for 35 years, I can't imagine any choice more consequential for a lifelong journey than the choice of a traveling companion." more »

If lawmakers take action sooner rather than later, more options and more time will be available to phase in changes so that the public has adequate time to prepare. Earlier action will also help elected officials minimize adverse impacts on vulnerable populations, including lower-income workers and people already dependent on program benefits. more »